Tournament inspired by cancer survivor going ‘to the next level’

After amassing nearly $50,000 in the first three years, Smith is anticipating Saturday’s fourth annual tournament to net between $20,000 and $25,000, thanks in part to the addition of new sponsorship.

The tournament will feature nine teams, most of which are squads made up of members of local fire departments. The event was inspired by the Los Osos basketball coach and Ontario Fire Department captain Chip Smith, whom David Smith met while undergoing cancer treatment in 2010.

Teams from the Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino County, Ontario Airport and Arcadia fire departments will participate Saturday.

Event proceeds will be donated to San Antonio Hospital and City of Hope Cancer Center for cancer research. A portion of the funds will be donated to the the Terri Large Foundation, a college scholarship fund for high school students with cancer.

“There are a couple of people involved who we hope can help take us to the next level,” David Smith said. “It’s very exciting to see this grow.”

Athletes for Life is the tournament’s new major sponsor this year and All-Star Kia of San Bernardino and Pomona is a new corporate sponsor.